Robert Crumb is widely known for his satirical, irreverent and one-of-a-kind illustration style. His best-known work includes characters like “Fritz the Cat,” “Mr. Natural,” a slew of comic strips, and the Keep on Truckin’ drawing; an icon of 1970s pop culture.
Although millions have admired Crumb’s artwork, fewer know about his passion for music. Crumb maintains a massive collection of 78-rpm phonograph records that in the past have served as the source for world music compilations and Crumb’s very own BBC radio series. In the 1970s, Crumb produced three records with his own band, R. Crumb & His Cheap Suit Serenaders.
Crumb’s newest project is World Musette by his group Les Primitifs du Futur. Co-founded with guitarist Dominique Cravic, the band includes vocalist Clae Etziere, Jean-Michel Davis on vibraphone and drums, Daniel Colin on accordion and bandoneon, Daniel Huck on saxophone and Fay Lovsky on vocals. Capturing the various styles of the popular French musette music of the 1930s, the disc dabbles in blues, tango, bop and hot-club swing.
Naturally, Crumb’s memorable artwork adorns the CD’s cover.
Originally Published